The Republic of Panama and The Washington Center Introduce the U.S. Panama Innovation and Competitiveness Initiative

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• Latin America - español

WASHINGTON, March 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Starting in May 2012, 35 students from Panama will have the opportunity to participate in three new programs including an academic and professional internship program, an advanced leadership seminar, and an innovation and competitiveness forum in Washington, D.C.  The initiative is the result of a partnership between The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars and the Republic of Panama, awarding scholarships to 40 participants over the course of 2012.  The U.S. Panama Innovation and Competitiveness Initiative agreement was signed yesterday at a ceremony held at the headquarters of The Washington Center.

"After months of hard work between the Republic of Panama and The Washington Center, we have come to sign an agreement which will help shape future Panamanian leaders," said Dr. Ruben Berrocal, the Secretary of Science, Technology and Innovation of Panama.  "This partnership will foster a competitive and sustainable Panama by creating win/win situations not just for us, but for the entire region."

The program is available to Panamanian citizens that have been enrolled in a university program for the last two years, are in good academic standing and are under the age of 30. The scholarship will cover the cost of the program and round trip travel from Panama to Washington, D.C. as well as a living stipend for the duration of the program.

"We believe that global awareness is paramount to readying the next generation of the workforce, both here in the U.S. and abroad," said Mike Smith, president of The Washington Center. "We welcome students from Panama to our program."

The initiative is made possible by a grant from Panama's National Secretariat for Science, Technology and Innovation (SENACYT).  The mission of SENACYT is to strengthen Panama's workforce through community engagement, professional development and leadership.

About The Washington Center

The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars is an independent, nonprofit organization that serves hundreds of colleges and universities in the United States and other countries by providing selected students challenging opportunities to work and learn in Washington, D.C., for academic credit. The largest program of its kind, The Washington Center has more than 50,000 alumni who have become leaders in numerous professions and nations around the world. It was established in 1975. For more information visit: www.twc.edu.

SOURCE The Washington Center